ALBION, MI – A groundbreaking ceremony was held Monday for the new Oaklawn Dialysis Center, which will aim to provide dialysis treatments to residents who face transportation challenges.

"Having this right here in our own backyard is going to be a great asset," Albion City Manager Sheryl L. Mitchell said in a statement. "It's also going to bring some jobs and economic development. We're truly appreciative and we look forward to the partnership."

Construction is to begin immediately on property at the Oaklawn Medical Group's existing location at 300 B Drive North.

The 8,800-square-foot, 12-chair facility will serve patients throughout the Albion region.

"This is a very exciting opportunity," said Valerie Duhn, who will serve as the clinic's medical director. "Dialysis patients already face a lot of hardships, so being able to come to them rather than making them come to us three times a week is really a nice thing for the community."

The facility will have the capacity to increase to 16 chairs if needed and will offer home dialysis.

"We're into community outreach, and Albion is an area that needs to be included," Oaklawn Chief Support and Ancillary Services Officer Sharon Boyd said in a statement. "Too many people who need dialysis treatment have to travel now to receive help. This is our stepping-stone to the Albion community."

The project is estimated to be cost about $3 million, and to be completed in early winter.

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